ODIRS disburses N42m land use charge, radio/TV licence revenues to 18 Ondo Local Govts
The Ondo State Internal Revenue Service (ODIRS) has presented cheques totaling ₦20,445,784.00 for land use charges and ₦22,100,000.00 for radio and television license revenue to the 18 local government chairmen.
The cheques were handed over during the March edition of the Joint State Revenue Committee (JSRC) meeting, held at the ODIRS Hall in Alagbaka, Akure.
Strengthening Revenue Collection
The Acting Chairman of ODIRS, Mr. Bayo Rojugbokan, emphasized that the JSRC serves as a collaborative platform between ODIRS and the local government chairmen to harmonize policies and guidelines for efficient internal revenue collection across the state.
“We are making progress and fostering a cooperative approach toward improved revenue collection in Ondo State. Compared to previous disbursements, this allocation is higher, and I believe the local government chairmen are pleased to receive these cheques,” he stated.
He further stressed the importance of cooperation in revenue collection. “We will continue to appeal to them. We are committed to integrity and transparency in this effort. I mentioned earlier today that local government chairmen alone may not be able to collect all revenues within their jurisdictions. Therefore, we need strong collaboration between local governments and the Internal Revenue Service to ensure comprehensive revenue assessment and collection across Ondo State.”
Introduction of a Digital Tax Payment Platform
Speaking about the newly launched revenue collection platform, Rojugbokan expressed optimism about its efficiency. “Tax collection must be simple, and the I-Ondo platform will allow individuals to pay taxes conveniently. Payments can now be made directly without third-party involvement, making the process more secure and reliable.”
He further highlighted the platform’s role in reducing revenue leakages. “While we may not eliminate leakages entirely, this platform will minimize them significantly. Payments will go directly to the intended accounts, preventing diversion of funds,” he added.
Enhancing Budget and Financial Control at the Local Government Level
A consultant, Dr. Thomson Aiyegunle, delivered a lecture on improving budget preparation, financial control, and revenue generation at the local government level. He underscored the significance of internal revenue generation, especially as local governments now receive direct federal allocations.
“While federal allocations provide financial support, strengthening internally generated revenue (IGR) is crucial for sustainable development,” he noted.
Dr. Aiyegunle emphasized the need for transparent financial management, stating, “Local government officials must continuously enhance their knowledge of financial control and monitoring. Implementing best practices in budgeting and revenue generation will maximize financial resources and drive socio-economic development at the grassroots level.”
ALGON Chairman Commends ODIRS
Reacting to the development, the Chairman of Akure South Local Government and ALGON Chairman for Ondo State, Dr. Gbenga Fasua, commended ODIRS for its efforts.
“There has been an irrational revenue-sharing formula of 70-30. However, today, we received over ₦20 million for radio and television license fees, alongside over ₦20 million for land use charges for the 18 local governments to share,” he stated.
He acknowledged the significance of internally generated revenue for local governments, saying, “Revenue generation is a crucial support system for financial stability and service delivery at the local government level. We are committed to improving revenue collection within the confines of the law.”
Commitment to Increased Revenue Generation
Dr. Fasua assured the people of Ondo State that internally generated revenue would increase under the current administration of local government chairmen.
“We are deploying the Agro-Asset Platform and e-collection systems to enhance revenue collection. Every methodology to prevent leakages is being put in place. We will also use this medium to sensitize our people on the importance of paying local government dues, taxes, and rates appropriately,” he concluded.
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